SABHSSA hosts hunting clinic at SA Wildlife College
LIMPOPO – Driven by a clear and transformative vision, the South African Black Hunters Sport Shooters Association (SABHSSA) took a historic step forward by hosting its first hunting clinic from Thursday, May 1, to Sunday, May 4, at the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC) in Hoedspruit.
The clinic embodied SABHSSA's commitment to developing a new generation of ethical, skilled, and inclusive hunting professionals.
With the theme 'Reimagining South Africa's professional hunting industry: Unlocking opportunities through transformation and inclusion,' the clinic paved the way for a hunting sector that reflects South Africa's diversity and advocates responsible resource use.
The event was jointly facilitated by Dr Thabang Teffo, responsible resource management head at SAWC, and Frans Malebane, CEO of SABHSSA. Together, they guided discussions and activities that emphasised transformation, ethics, and hands-on skills development.
'This inaugural clinic reflects SABHSSA's commitment to nurturing a new generation of competent, ethical, and dedicated hunting professionals,' said Malebane.
'It is essential that both the client and the professional hunter are kept safe at all times while in the bush. Building these skills is not only about professionalism but about safety, ethical conduct, and creating a transformative industry future that is inclusive and responsible,' he added.
The clinic brought together aspiring hunters, leaders from community property associations (CPA) such as KwaMalawuza CPA, and key supporters like the Custodians of Professional Hunting and Conservation South Africa (CPHC-SA).
The four-day clinic delivered a robust programme that covered critical areas such as basic tracking, hunting ethics, firearm ownership, and practical shooting. A field trip to the Timbavati Private Game Reserve provided participants with firsthand exposure to game harvesting techniques, abattoir protocols, skinning and salting processes, and tannery practices. These real-world lessons were complemented by a visit to the Graeme Naylor Museum, deepening attendees' understanding of South Africa's conservation and hunting heritage.
Pieter Nel, a SAWC senior trainer in regenerative land practices, provided expert guidance on firearm handling and responsible hunting, while also explaining ballistic performance and proper shot placement for both African plains game and dangerous game.
'Hunters should understand that the aim is not to hurt the animal but to kill it,' he explained.
He also led the afternoon shooting sessions, guiding participants through hands-on exercises with both a 22 rifle and the powerful 4.75 heavy rifle, which delivered an adrenaline-charged experience that challenged even the most seasoned hunters.
The clinic wrapped up on an exciting note with a paintball shoot-out, where participants put their teamwork, tactical thinking, and shooting skills to the test in a spirited and engaging finale.
One of the attendees, Komape Everson Manoko, reflected on the experience. 'When I recently joined SABHSSA, I did not know what to expect. I simply wanted to be part of an organisation that values and champions transformation. This first clinic exceeded all my expectations, from formal boardroom discussions on conservation and law to fireside storytelling and personal experiences. The session on approaching dangerous game on foot was particularly fascinating and fun. I look forward to more exciting events like this and encourage everyone who cares about nature and conservation to get involved.'
The success of the hunting clinic is set to become an annual event. The next hunting clinic will be announced soon.
For more information or to become a member, contact: info@sabhssa.org
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